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A person who contaminated treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a youth camp in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two young males who were nine and 10.

The accused was taken into custody after eight youngsters and a grown-up experienced illness at the location in the summer month.

The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, pleaded guilty to a total of 17 charges when he was present at the judicial center on recently.

Nevertheless, he refused to admit a single sexual charge he was facing, which was involving a nine-year-old child.

The defendant was kept in jail before a subsequent court date on late November.

'Treat game'

The prosecutor, handling the case, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.

She explained his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.

The defendant conducted a "candy game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor stated, in which he would enter the boys' rooms when they were settling down and request they to consume candy "rapidly".

She informed the proceedings Ruben had played this game with the children "over an extended period", and children had earlier experienced illness the next day.

She stated the defendant had been able to explain this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.

The legal representative continued: "This year his stepson had suspicions about what was going on, with valid cause.

"They chose" to investigate in the individual's items."

The legal counsel stated materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his family member notified the authorities about his suspicions.

She said the defendant continued to engage in the "treat game" with six children that time - July 26th - and they were all ill the subsequent day.

"Authorities" had not responded by that stage," she added.

The police watchdog, the investigative body, earlier informed that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.

Mrs Prior explained the children were having difficulty walking due to their sickness, so the family member contacted the law enforcement once more.

She said the defendant then played the "treat game" in a space of five children.